The Hollywood Casino 400 is barely 100 laps old, but Jimmie Johnson is looking like the clear driver to beat.
The five-time defending series champion and 2008 Kansas victor has dominated since taking the lead with a two-tire pit stop after the first caution flag at lap 21. He was finally overhauled by Roush-Fenway teammates Greg Biffle and Matt Kenseth - both of whom took four tires on that stop - at the end of the run, but chased down and passed Biffle shortly after putting four tires on.
Johnson currently shows the way after 101 circuits with 39 laps led. Jeff Gordon, Tony Stewart, Kyle Busch - who led briefly after attempting the two-tire strategy on his most recent stop before giving way to Johnson - and Kenseth round out the top-five.
Carl Edwards' race-long struggle continues, as he is shown in the 20th position. After starting second and given his success on 1.5-mile race tracks in his career, Edwards was considered an pre-race favorite to win and take the point lead outright after entering the day tied with Kevin Harvick atop the standings. Harvick, meanwhile, is shown in 13th position.